Johnstone's Paint Pot Challenge

The Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge made its seasonal return at Wolverhampton Wanderers – and made the dreams of a lifelong supporter come true.

The Sky Bet League 1 club were the first to take on the ultimate test of accuracy, which sees members of the squad attempting to chip the ball from the angle of the penalty area into a giant inflatable paint pot on the six yard line.

Ten players from the Molineux club took the challenge, along with Derby-based supporter Phil Pritchard, pictured with Kenny Jackett, who was the first winner of the new 11th man competition which enables one lucky fan to join in the fun.

One point is awarded each time the paint pot is struck, with a maximum ten points scored for a chip in.

No Wolves player managed a successful chip-in, but four – captain Sam Ricketts and midfield trio Dave Edwards, Jack Price and Dave Davis - struck the pot to give the club, who host Notts County in the second round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy next Tuesday, a total of four points.

Phil, a 54-year-old who runs a chain of barbers shop and was born in Wolverhampton, was selected at random as the winner of the 11th man competition after entering on the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy website.

“It was a fantastic experience to join the players for the Johnstone’s Paint Pot Challenge,” said Phil, whose father was the cousin of Billy Hartill who played for Wolves in the 1920s and 1930s.

“It was a shame we didn’t score more points in the Challenge but the players were excellent with my son and daughter, Ben and Grace, who also attended. It’s an excellent initiative.”

Ben Wilde, Brand and Sponsorship Manager for Johnstone’s Paint, said: “The Paint Pot Challenge was a huge success with clubs and fans last season and the early indications are that it will be the same again this season.

“It was fantastic to get a new club in Wolves involved and the 11th man competition proved a hit with players and supporters alike.